In a refreshingly candid conversation that resonated through Mumbai's creative circles, advertising maestros Prasoon Joshi and Piyush Pandey recently addressed a topic many award recipients often sidestep - the genuine pride of wearing national honors.
The Unapologetic Honor
During an event that brought together luminaries from the advertising and creative industries, Joshi, the acclaimed lyricist and Central Board of Film Certification chairperson, made a powerful statement about his Padma Shri. "I wear my medal with pride," he declared, adding emphatically, "I have never pretended otherwise."
This straightforward admission cut through the usual modest dismissals that often accompany discussions of national awards, presenting a more authentic perspective on receiving such honors.
A Shared Sentiment
Piyush Pandey, the iconic adman and former Ogilvy executive, echoed this sentiment with equal conviction. The advertising legend, known for creating some of India's most memorable campaigns, stood firmly alongside Joshi in celebrating their achievements without false humility.
The exchange highlighted a significant shift in how accomplished professionals view recognition - not as something to be downplayed, but as milestones worth celebrating openly.
Beyond Personal Achievement
Both legends emphasized that their pride extends beyond personal accomplishment. For them, these medals represent something larger - the recognition of their entire industry's contribution to Indian culture and society.
The advertising and creative sectors, often working behind the scenes, received validation through this conversation, with Joshi and Pandey serving as standard-bearers for countless professionals in the field.
A Message to the Creative Community
The discussion served as an important message to younger professionals in creative fields: that taking pride in one's achievements isn't arrogance, but rather an acknowledgment of hard work and dedication.
In an industry where imposter syndrome often runs high, seeing veterans like Joshi and Pandey embrace their success so openly provides both inspiration and permission for others to do the same.
The event underscored that true humility isn't about denying one's accomplishments, but about recognizing them as part of a larger journey and using that recognition to inspire others.
